Category: Author Interview

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Q1. Hello Ma’am, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.

Hi I am Callie chapman, I am in 6th grade. I wrote my first book when I was 6 years old and in first grade. My favorite color is blue and my favorte food is spagetti. I live in Birmingham, Alabama. I have written four books. Glitter the Unicorn, Glitter the Unicorn goes to the Beach, Glitter the Unicorn goes to the Moon and Chandler The Best Unicorn Rider. I have a fourth Glitter the Unicorn book that I hope will be availble this fall. I donate all my prceeds to Children’s Hopsital for art supplies. I have donated $11,500. I plan to make another donation this fall for $8,500 bringing my total to $20,000. One things I have gotten to do since writing my books is speak to children at schools, teacher conventions and more. I like to share my message Dream Big! You are never to small to do big things.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘Glitter The Unicorn’ book?

I was only six when I wrote Glitter the Unicorn. Challenges I faced when writing Glitter the Unicorn was spelling, being able to have a lot of details in each page and putting all my ideas on the pages. Sometimes my mom would have to ask how, describe what it looked like….and how did something happen. These questions helped me to stay on track and write a good story.

Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?

Pinkalishious was my favorite book when I wrote Glitter the Unicorn . I would beg to read it every night.

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Q4. What’s your favourite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?

My grandparents house because when I go there my cousins are there and the whole family.

Q5. Is there lots to do before you drive in and start writing a book?

When I have an idea for a book I will put my ideas in bullet points and put everything in order. I will then write the story. It helps when I draw pictures for each page. Sometimes this can help spark new ideas.


Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘Glitter The Unicorn Goes To The Moon’ book?

About a month. I like to write the story. Then I will draw picture for my illustrator showing her what and how I would like each page to look. I will then put the story down and come back to it. I will usually then make things more clear, add more details and even change the story ending.

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Q7. On what all platforms readers can find your books to buy?

Amazon, OakieBees.com, and GlitterTheUnicorn.com

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the cover and the title of your books?

The titles are the adventures that Ellie and Glitter are doing in each book. The cover is a reflection of what they are doing on that adventure. My mom, my illustrator, and I usually save the cover for last. We look at all the pages and then come up with the best illustration for the book. It’s important for the cover to be exciting to lure you in.

Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?

I like to write thing that kids at a young age like to do and explore. I find it exciting to day dream and imagine different stories to tell.

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Author’s Profile

Book Is Available On Amazon

Glitter The Unicorn  Goes To The Moon

Glitter The Unicorn 

Glitter The Unicorn  Goes To The Beach

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Q1. Hello Sir, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.

Hi, my name’s Steve Ellis.. I’m a writer, musician, singer, narrator and English Language Teacher/Teacher trainer – oh, and more importantly, a parent and granddad! I’m British and live in Banbury, England – for your international readers, that’s not far from Oxford and Stratford-upon-Avon, Shakespeare’s birthplace.
I write stories for children, although I am also currently working on a young adult novel. My passion for writing has its roots in my childhood. Reading and writing were a pleasure, not a chore – first at home and then at school. I was fortunate! I had lots of encouragement from family and teachers who nurtured my love of books and ensured a plentiful supply of reading material. I fondly remember, – one teacher brought his personal library of children’s books into class!
A love of reading soon led to a love of making up stories and writing, both at school and at home, and many years later, my enthusiasm continues.
My experiences as an English language teacher kept him in contact with children and took him to Italy, Turkey, Thailand and Malaysia, as well as back to the UK to manage Summer Schools. Working for the British Council as Teacher Trainer, I promoted the use of illustrated storybooks as a learning aid for children to read, including using songs and role-play to make English language learning effective and fun.
I seek to pass on my love of books and reading to children.
My other main interest is music, and I have produced written and shows involving children in schools and the local community. I currently live surrounded by a load of books, two pianos, three guitars, four computers and a host of musical and video hardware and software, which often keep me up late at night. Thankfully, an app on my phone gives me a daily nudge to get out and do some exercise, which is not always welcome in a typical British winter.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘The Man In The Moon ’ book?

Only one! I’ll come back to that in a moment. ‘The Man in the Moon is a poem, a story in verse. It didn’t start as a book – it was just a written doodle I wrote many years ago, toying around with words and verse. Why did I write it? I have no idea really! I do remember I first considered the title when I was in my teens and playing around with song writing – I think the idea of the man in the moon looking down on lovers – something like that! I dismissed the idea. Anyway, later when I did write it, I thought the rhythm of the verse had a lyrical quality to it so I then set it to music, a melody I had used in one of my children’s pantomime shows. That song version is available now on video.
The challenge, if I can call it that, was that I never believed as a child that there was a man in the moon. I remember my granddad used to get me to look up at a full moon and ask me if could see the man. I could sort of make out the outlines of a man’s face, but thought it was a bit silly as where was the rest of him? Anyway, it didn’t stop me from writing the verse later, and when I briefed the illustrator, I was intrigued to see what she would come up with. But, I liked her idea and so too, it appears, do children.

Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?

Roald Dahl. Easily my favourite children’s book author. He was never afraid to introduce some reality, bad behaviour, even if exaggerated, in adults and children alongside the fantasy! I should say that I have also always loved J M Barrie’s ‘Peter Pan’, which I made into a musical version some years ago. I love the last few words at the end of the book, ‘ … and thus it will go on, so long as children are gay and innocent and heartless.’ I always found the contrast between ’innocent’ and ‘heartless’ striking. I wonder if your readers would ever consider that they can have both qualities?

Q4. What’s your favourite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?

There are many beautiful spots in the UK. My countryside is probably The Yorkshire Dales, where I lived for a time. Older readers may remember it as the location for the TV series ‘All Creatures Great and Small’. My favourite city is York which has both Roman and Viking history.

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Q5. Is there lots to do before you drive in and start writing a book?

No, not really with stories for children. I have tended to come up with a concept and a working title first, so the only problem is constructing a plot that is somehow plausible, as well as being fantasy. Elements have to link and there has to be a sort of credibility to how the story unfurls and reaches a resolution.

Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘Bossy Boots’ book?

I honestly cannot remember. As with some of the other books, it started not as a written book, but as audio with music and songs. The hardest part was creating the songs and music, but, of course, they are not in the book version. When, I decided to publish it as a book, the editing took some time because the original audio version depended upon the songs to tell part of the story. I still included some of the lyrics in the book, bits where the boots, not the girl, are speaking in verse.

Q7. On what all platforms readers can find your books to buy?

Amazon and now I am just about to make them available on my new website, The Read Sing Play Well. https://www.thereadsingplaywell.com/ There are also videos and songs available.

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Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the cover and the title of your books?

I use a platform called Fiverr, which has many illustrators who show examples of their work amongst other services offered. I look for ones whose previous work matches the kind of thing I want and have an initial discussion to find out if I think they can understand what I am seeking and if we would work successfully together. The illustrator I have most enjoyed working with is Roz, from Ireland, who produced the illustrations for ‘Bossy Boots’ and ‘Who Knocked Out Santa Claus?’. We had an excellent rapport and I love her work. Her images are so amusing, sad, touching, dramatic – depending upon the part of the story – and they have a vibrancy—a sort of movement in them which almost makes them seem animated. I just wish I could make them even more prominent in the books!

Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?

For children’s stories, I try to imagine what I would like to read if I was a child, the kind of things, situations that would make me laugh, sad, scared and so on. Working with children as an educator helps because it keeps me in contact with kids. In the case of the young adult novel I am writing, I am trying to make it very contemporary to fit events that are happening, or could happen, in the world today. To say much more would give the theme away! I j pretty well know the plot outline and have made a good start on the writing. I just need to find the time to get on with it – and stop myself doing too much self-editing as I write – something I’m guilty of doing as I get over-critical and analytical, at times.

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Book Is Available On Amazon

The Man In The Moon

Bossy Boots

Book: The Adventures Of Sara Beara And Selena Bombeelina: Book 1: Who We Are

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Q1. Hello Ma’am, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.

Hello, My name is Jennifer N. Senjanin. I am a mother to two beautiful children, twins that are turning twelve soon. I am also a teacher of 21+ years, and I have always loved to write. From a young age I loved reading books. It let me travel the world, and escape into my imagination. I started writing stories as long as I can remember.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘The Adventures Of Sara Beara And Selena Bombeelina: Book 1: Who We Are ’ book?

Interestingly, I started writing the book, just shortly after I had Sara and Selena, for whom the book’s characters are named after, and also who the characters are created around. But like many new parents, a busy parenting and teaching schedule delayed the writing process. A few years later as the girls were growing up and their personalities were taking shape, and I had more time, the book was back on track and then finally completed.

Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?

Two of my favorite books growing up, really impacted my life and my own creative process. The secret garden and Where the sidewalk ends. Two very different books with a common theme, imagination with greater meaning, and in effet communicating such real and significant life lessons.

Q4. What’s your favourite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?

One of my favourite spots to visit is not too far and in my own backyard. Windsor, Ontario, Canada, has a beautiful waterfront, and a great path to walk, relax and reflect. Growing up from carnivals, to concerts and more the waterfront would transform into what it needed to. The path also extends for miles and is outlined with beautiful flowers and natural settings.

Q5. Is there lots to do before you drive in and start writing a book?

For me, I need to feel at ease to begin the writing process. It is almost like I have to feel like its the right time. It could be early in the morning or the middle of the day, when an idea or a new inspiration for writing comes along.

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Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘The Adventures Of Sara Beara And Selena Bombeelina: Book 1: Who We Are’ book?

With all the breaks, and the work in process, it took about 3 years to complete.

Q7. On what all platforms readers can find ‘The Adventures Of Sara Beara And Selena Bombeelina: Book 1: Who We Are’ book to buy?

Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Indigo/Chapters, and Friesens press

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘The Adventures Of Sara Beara And Selena Bombeelina: Book 1: Who We Are’?

The book cover took some time and needed to be reflective of the theme of uniqueness and family, while centering around the main characters. The girls embracing in a big hug shows how important their bond is to the understanding of family and more.

Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?

I often write from experience, so as a teacher and parent the most relevant and important lessons, even the universal ones, can take a different perspective.

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Book Is Available On Amazon

The Adventures Of Sara Beara And Selena Bombeelina: Book 1: Who We Are

Book: Searching for Sarah

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Q1. Hello Sir, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.

I’ve has always been a storyteller, but never put pen to paper until a few years ago. Suddenly, I had a publishing contract, and in the midst of the vortex of marketing, analytics, refining, and continuing to write, I discovered what I define as my true calling, my passion. I am now fully and happily immersed in the whirlwind that is the publishing industry, even as I diligently continue my work in enterprise software sales.
I am a Long Islander with Hispanic roots, now living in Florida, and it is from those memories of summers on Long Island, New York that I crafted my first book, Last Exit to Montauk. The Captain & the Queen soon followed, and I recently released my third novel, Searching for Sarah, the 2021 Book Excellence Awards, Winner, LGBTQ/Fiction.
Comfortable in a room full of people or one on one, I welcome opportunities for guest appearances, interviews, and book signings–and even more importantly, engaging with my fans.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘Searching For Sarah’ book?

Time is always my greatest challenge. When writing, the story arc plays in my mind, almost like a YouTube video. Each chapter plays as I put thought to paper. My greatest challenge is finding the time to sit and write.

Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?

There are many books and authors that influenced me over the years, and they range in genre. As I look at the bookcase in my office, I see a lot of Lee Childs, Timothy Zahn, Tom Clancy, Stephen King and J.K. Rowling, to name a few.

Q4. What’s your favourite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?

I am a beach-lover. I could spend all day lounging at the beach, watching the waves caress the crystal white shore, as people splash about the water, and build castles in the sand. There is a peace to beach, especially at sunset. A quietness that everyone seems to respect.

Q5. Is there lots to do before you drive in and start writing a book?

I’d love to say yes, but for me, since starting this career, the ideas flood my mind. Unlike some of my contemporaries, I do not create an outline for my stories. I get an idea, sit at my keyboard, turn on my music, and start writing.

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Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘Searching For Sarah’ book?

It took me approximately six weeks to write. That is typically how long it takes me to write a new manuscript. Of course, it takes longer to edit, and re-edit, before releasing it to the marketplace. Fortunately, I work with a great editor, Janet Fix, of thewordverve.

Q7. On what all platforms readers can find ‘Searching For Sarah’ book to buy?

Currently, all my novels are available in paperback, and digital platforms from all the major retailers.

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Searching For Sarah’?

I do not know which came first, the title for the story, or the story itself. The title for this and my other novels, Last Exit to Montauk, and The Captain & the Queen, all came to me as I sat down and began the writing process.
Book covers, on the other hand, takes time. My send my editor ideas, and she, along with her staff, search for the right cover that evokes the overall theme of the novel. She usually sends me a few to choose from, and eventually select the one cover we all love.

Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?

Keeping things fresh can be challenging, which is why my novels aren’t repeats of one another. Interestingly, they all take place in the same universe, think Marvel Universe, where each character has a standalone story, but fits into an overall universe. And like that universe, all my novels are standalone, which periodically feature…spoiler alert…crossovers or easter eggs from previous, or future novels.
I try to keep things fresh by delivering new themes. For example, my award-winning first novel, Last Exit to Montauk, was an interracial coming-of-age tragic love story, set in the mid-80s summer of Long Island.
My Second, the award-winning, The Captain & the Queen, while similar, tells the comedic story of a(n) Hispanic teen who falls for his uber-rich Greek classmate.
The Book Excellence Awards, Winner, LGBTQ/Fiction, 2021, Searching for Sarah is adult-themed. It is the story of a man who sets out to fulfil his older sister’s dying wish. As he begins to look for clues through his sister’s diary, he is startled by the fact that he never even knew her at all, because she had a life partner named Sarah, that he did not know.
One reviewer wrote that finding Sarah becomes an adventure that reveals a lot about family dynamics, prejudices, and a love so pure it is inspiring. Searching for Sarah is a profoundly emotional story that will touch readers at deep and personal levels; it is a story of the triumph of love and its beauty, and fans of LGBTQ will find it irresistible.

Q10. Are there any secrets from the book (that aren’t in the blurb), you can share with your readers?

Absolutely. This story contains strong Hispanic protagonists, and strong female protagonists, a common theme in all my novels. As one reviewer wrote, Searching for Sarah is not simply a novel about love and not about sex, though both have their place. It’s about an idea. About ingrained prejudices, missed opportunities and events beyond our control. It’s about not letting life slip through our fingers.

If you’re looking for a book that delivers on adult themes, crossing boundaries, and love, then pick up a copy of Searching for Sarah.

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Book Is Available On Amazon

Searching for Sarah

Book: You

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Q1. Hello Ma’am, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.

Hello!! Yes, my name is Bria, often times I will go by Bria Unique, that is actually my middle name- a lot of people think of it as a stage name, but it’s not. I am a book junky! I enjoy books! I always said I want to have a library in my house, so I just go out and buy so many books at a time. It excites me to see a bookshelf full of books. I’m a fake vegan, lol. I can go months without eating meat then boom one day I’m ordering chicken nuggets and cheesesteaks.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘You’ book?

Key challenges that I faced… I actually didn’t have any. The process was really easy. I wrote the book. I didn’t really care to have it edited. I have my BA in English, so I just felt I didn’t need an editor and plus, it’s a children’s book. It’s very short. As long as my words were spelt correctly, that was all I needed. I actually feel challenges now though- between working with the same illustrator, working with a completely new illustrator where the characters will be completely different, and also my main scare is publishing a poetry book.

Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?

Books and authors that inspired me the most- I love love loveeee Maya Angelou. I can read her poetry or even watch her reciting poetry or just talking about life in general on a weekly basis. I literally would have her playing all the time. I listen to her on a regular. I can’t even lie, I actually was also inspired by Dr. Seuss. That was another reason I didn’t care to have an editor. When I think about children’s books, words are always made up or exaggerated in the stories.

Q4. What’s your favourite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?

I love nature! Being outside is really my go to. I enjoy being by water the most, preferably surrounded by trees, I’m not much of a beach person.

Q5. Is there lots to do before you drive in and start writing a book?

It’s not. I try not to force myself to write. I rather it just naturally come and I will be like, hmm this is a good time to write. I take a lot of notes though, in my phone. Like if I am not in a writing mood or have something else going on and ideas come to me, I will quickly jot it down and when I am free to work on a project, it all just comes to me. I can go days without writing and I am actually okay with that because when I do write, I end up either writing more than one story in a day or I am writing something every day back to back.

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Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘You’ book?

Honestly, it took me a day. What is really crazy though, is how quickly I got to work on having it illustrated and published. There was literally no time of me procrastinating. I wrote the book, found the illustrator, did the research on who to publish with and once the illustrator sent me the final file, I literally uploaded it the same day. I even advertised it, before I had a hardcopy myself. I look back at that now like, wow that was crazy, other people had my book before I even had it!

Q7. On what all platforms readers can find ‘You’ book to buy?

As of right now, it is only on Amazon. I do have a few copies myself that I can of course sign and mail out. I am working towards setting up a website so I will be mailing them out myself. The website is actually created it is just not live yet, because I am still working on it.

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘You’?

The story behind the title. The book itself, I had someone in mind when writing this book. But I definitely can relate to it. Needing the affirmation and assurance, both as a child and now. I decided the cover with the teacher hugging the little girl, because I just felt that was a great picture to use. Holding her close, giving her warm feels, eye contact, I wanted to show the self-love. Fun fact about the characters- I actually submitted pictures of myself for the illustrator to use as a reference. When I seen the sketches though, I didn’t feel they actually looked like me, so that is why I made the melanin different shades, but overall, I love how they turned out. So honestly, it is like me, at the age of 26, talking to myself, at the age of 5, or whatever age I was in the picture I used.

Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?

How do I keep things fresh… my goal is to keep the stories in a way where anyone can relate to them at any time. Decades from now, anyone will be able to pick up my book and be like hmmm… I can relate to that. The Leave a Smile poem, is a poem that I will include in all of my children’s book and the goal is to really have that poem be worldwide well known. That is what I see for the poem and the stories as well. A hundred years from now I want all of these stories, well everything that I have written be popular, relevant, and a discussion in classrooms, homes and even theaters! This is me leaving a legacy, this is my purpose.

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Book Is Available On Amazon

You

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Q1. Hello Ma’am, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.

Hello! I’m an award-winning novelist of the Journals from the Heart series as well as two stand-alone novels, IN GOD WE TRUST and CALL IT KISMET (May 17, 2021).

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘Whispers from the Heart’ book?

I was a high school English teacher at the time of writing the novel, so some of the challenges involved tapping into the emotions of my classroom students while creating original characters for the novel.

Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?

I love Nicholas Sparks. WHISPERS FROM THE HEART has been referenced as being similar to his writing, which was a huge compliment to me!

Q4. What’s your favourite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?

I have driven across the United States ten times, so every bit of this country is special to me. But, I grew up in Connecticut and just moved back to New England (for the summer season), and I spend my winters in Florida.

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Q5. Is there lots to do before you dive in and start writing a book?

For me, it all comes to me while I’m writing. When I wrote WHISPERS FROM THE HEART, and my other novels, the characters told me how they wanted to be written. I honestly didn’t know the endings until I was writing them.

Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘Creating What’s Next: Gracefully’ book?

I co-wrote it with my mother, Valerie Ramsey, and we spent about six months writing it.

Q7. On what all platforms readers can find your books to buy?

Mostly on Amazon right now so that they can take advantage of Kindle Unlimited.

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Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the cover and the title of your books?

Titles are always the hardest for me. I can write a book, but coming up with a few words for a title is always a struggle. The key is to not make it about what you want, but about what serves the book and your readers. The cover design phase I love because I’m also a photographer, so I love the visual aspect of it.

Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?

WHISPERS FROM THE HEART alternates chapters between Madison, the protagonist, being in her classroom and in her personal life. Much like my forthcoming novel, CALL IT KISMET, it’s like there are two parallel stories for the protagonist in alternating chapters.

Q10. Are there any secrets from the book (that aren’t in the blurb), you can share with your readers?

Readers either LOVE or HATE the ending!! But, that’s honestly the response I expected.

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Book Is Available On Amazon

In God We Trust

Call It Kismet
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Book: The Royal Bond

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Q1.  Hello Ma’am, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.

 Hello! I am so honored to be here to introduce myself a little. My name is Keylee Hargis, author of The Bond Series. I am from Bowling Green, Kentucky, and I love reading and writing! When I’m not doing either, I love photography and videography. I’m still in college and I plan to major in English with a creative writing focus. I love writing stories that give my readers a new world to escape into.

Q2.  What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘ The Royal Bond ’ book?

My key challenges in writing The Royal Bond would have to be the restructuring from the original version. I wrote The Royal Bond on Wattpad as a freshman in high school and never thought this would become a career for me. When I went to publish The Royal Bond, I had to restructure and pretty much re-write the book to make is more… me, since I am older now!

Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?

. An author that has influenced me the most is Sarah J. Maas. Her books are so amazing and was one of the first authors that really made me enjoy reading. She produced a book that gave me an escape from reality and made me feel as if I was there witnessing the whole story play out, which I loved.

Q4. What’s your favourite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?

My favorite spot to visit in my country would be going to the beach in Florida. What makes it special to me is giving me a new setting to escape in and kick back on the beach with my book reading, or my laptop writing. It’s so peaceful and I am able to do so much in the new atmosphere!

Q5. Is there lots to do before you dive in and start writing a book?

Before I start writing a book, so much goes into it that many people wouldn’t expect. My brain storming process is long and well thought out. I like to take a lot of time creating a plot before I create my characters and then I fit them into the plot accordingly. I love to take time with my characters to create something that makes them rememberable to my readers!

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Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘ The Royal Bond ’ book?

 It took me about a year to write The Royal Bond. Then before publishing, it took me about five months or so to get it ready. I put my heart and all my time into the process of The Royal Bond, which I am so proud of.

Q7. On what all platforms readers can find your books to buy?

You can buy The Royal Bond (paperback or e-book) on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and many other stores!

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the cover and the title of your books?

The book cover was a long process to me because I really wanted something to wow my readers. I had a photoshoot with my friend, Elizabeth, who did such an amazing job modeling Scarlett Madison (from the book). I talked with the photographer about my ideas and we came to an agreement to do a powerful move of her crowning herself. It’s a small detail, but if you look closely you can see the person crowning her is actually her because of the same sleeves/dress etc. (this is super important to the plot). Then Maja, my cover editor, heard all the ideas I had and mashed them all together to create an amazing cover! As for the title, I created it from the mate bond in the book and since Scarlett becomes a royal, The Royal Bond stuck.

Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?

 I try to keep things fresh by creating new characters and scenarios that won’t bore my readers and make them feel as if you’re reading the same thing over and over again. I also love doing huge climax events that no one would expect and other things like that!

Q10. Are there any secrets from the book (that aren’t in the blurb), you can share with your readers?

There are a few secrets in the book, but a big one is the small details in which the books of The Bond Series intertwines. So look for the small details that may seem irrelevant when mentioned, because it will pop up in another book and give you a good laugh 😉

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Book Is Available On Amazon

The Royal Bond

Book: Treason Flight

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Q1. Hello Sir, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.

My name is T.R. Matson and I am the author of ‘Treason Flight.’ I am finishing up my 20 year career in the U.S. Navy where I served flying the E-2C Hawkeye and F/A-18C Hornet during four combat deployments. Between deployments I served multiple tours as a T-45C Instructor pilot. When I left active duty I stayed in the reserves and got hired by a Legacy U.S. Airline. I have an amazing wife that supports all my crazy goals and I have a young son.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘Treason Flight ’ book?

My biggest challenge was time. Working a full time job, having a young son and still being in the Navy Reserves leaves little time to actually get in front of the computer and write. The key is to set aside time the best you can and stick to it. Every time I sat down to write I was transported to another place and soon that became my escape from the day to day. Once I embraced that, the story came much easier.

Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?

I have been influenced by Stephen Coonts, specifically with ‘Flight of the Intruder’, but also C.W. Lemoine, Jack Carr, Richard Marcinko and Marcus Luttrell.

Q4. What’s your favourite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?

This is going to sound very odd but my favourite spot or time is when I am driving to work. My current commute involves a lot of back country road driving and it gives me time to organize my thoughts and come up with a plan for the next phase of writing.

Q5. Is there lots to do before you dive in and start writing a book?

Surprisingly little. I think this is one of the biggest misconceptions of writing. All it takes is a piece of paper or at most opening up a black document on your computer. We often make things more complex then they need to be. If you have a story to tell and that story is in your head all you have to do is allow yourself to have a means to get it on paper.

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Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘Treason Flight’ book?

This is an interesting question that I get asked a lot. The first words of ‘Treason Flight’ hit my computer in 2017. By April of 2020 I probably only had about a ¼ of the book written. I was not really focused on it and did not make it a priority. Then 2020 happened and between lock downs and everything that came with that year I spent a lot more time with my son. When I looked at him I realized that he would learn about 2020 when he was older and I wanted to show him that no matter what is going on in the world, or how hard things may seem if you have a goal you can achieve it. In April 2020 I set the goal to have the first draft finished by the end of the year and I reached that goal in November 2020.

Q7. On what all platforms readers can find ‘Treason Flight’ book to buy?

‘Treason Flight’ will be available on all eBook platforms as well as paperback on Amazon. Additionally hard copies can be purchased as well but the first step would be to go to http://www.trmatson.com and decide if you would like the electronic, paperback or maybe even a signed hard cover. I also have plans to have a special edition hard cover in the future. Additionally, the audio book is currently being recorded so stay tuned to my website and social media for a big announcement on that. Audio book lovers will not be disappointed.

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Treason Flight’?

I worked with the company eBook launch for the cover art and from the feedback I am getting they really did a professional job. I wanted to capture the reader’s attention when they saw the cover in the book store or on Amazon and I think between the title and the cover art I have succeeded. As far as the title that is also interesting. I used to think that you named your book then wrote it but ‘Treason Flight’ actually was called something completely different for about 95% of the time that I was writing it. It was the writing itself that created the title one morning while I was driving to work in my truck.

Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?

In the case of ‘Treason Flight’ I have to take myself back to a time in my past. While I am not Jack “Rattler” Owen, I have walked in his shoes and understand what he is going through. I have many friends that have continued that journey and staying in touch is the key to staying relevant. In an action packed triller, I think it is important to keep the pace of things moving but also give more to the reader. We have all read books or watched movies that are non-stop action and you end up exhausted at the end. With ‘Treason Flight’ I wanted the reader to sit on the edge of being engaged with the book just enough to not be able to put it down. I believe I have achieved that goal.

Q10. Are there any secrets from the book (that aren’t in the blurb), you can share with your readers?

A lot of times books, especially military thrillers, follow a pretty standard path. A path that if you read a lot of them you can almost predict about half of the way through the book. ‘Treason Flight’ does not follow that path, while you may think you know how it is going to end I assure you that until you read every last word the story is evolving.

Author’s Profile

Book Is Available On Amazon

Treason Flight

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Q1.  Hello Ma’am, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.

 I’m Victoria Day-Joel, 42 from Gloucestershire, England. A published Poet and Author through Olympia Publishers London. Poetry Inspired by Oliver 2018 and New Beginnings 2020. 

Q2.  What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘ Poetry Inspired by Oliver ’ book?

My challenges came after the writing of Poetry Inspired by Oliver. The writing was very secretive as I wrote poems to share my innermost feelings to Oliver, my friend and muse.  I didn’t set out to write a book, but it became one! Nobody knew I could write including myself so it was all about following the moment, a hidden talent discovered in my late 30’s brought about by the situation I was in.It felt like I was sharing my private journals to the world, it felt so powerful I felt compelled to send off my manuscript.But also I wanted to give a book as a gesture of love to my friend.Olympia Publishers were the only publishers I sent it to and It was accepted. 

Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?

 I write from the heart and only started reading poetry after I had written my first book. I’ve had no training or study, so I’m not technical in any way. I’ve discovered Anais Nin as my writing was compared to hers, but I love discovering new poets too. So many talented people who are unknown

Q4. What’s your favourite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?

 I live near Lakes and Parks. In Cirencester my hometown we are privileged to have ancient parkland which continually inspires me, I’ve written in New Beginnings, the poem ‘Corinium’ in Cirencester Park and ‘Lake Story’ by the Cotswold Lake whilst drinking coffee. Cirencester will always hold a special place in my heart wherever I am.

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Q5. Is there lots to do before you dive in and start writing a book?

With Poetry it’s all about capturing the moment, the mood, the inspiration, the thought, the desire before it leaves. I will write lines on the go on my mobile phone and come back to them and piece together later. So far, It is pretty much chronological.

Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘ New Beginnings ’ book?

New Beginnings was written over a two year period. Life has to happen to record it! It all came together in that time span. Early 2018 to early 2020 before the pandemic. 

Q7. On what all platforms readers can find your books to buy?

 Worldwide; Amazon. Olympia Publishers. Hive. Blackwell. Wordery. Book Depository. Books etc. Waterstones. World of Books. Booktopia. WHSmith. Bokus. Foyles. 

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Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the cover and the title of your books?

Book Covers;  it’s a collaboration between the design team and I, My vision for Poetry Inspired by Oliver was a male and female silhouette, Olympia came up with the rest. I didn’t have any colour ideas but as soon as I saw the hot pink it fit perfectly with the passion and romance. For New Beginnings, I wanted the continuity as it follows on chronologically even though they can read in a separate order. I knew I wanted the blue colour, a female silhouette and sunshine to fit perfectly with the narrative. I’m perhaps half way through writing my next book but can already visualise the front cover! Book Names; They both fit perfectlyto describe the narrative.

Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?

As life evolves I write my personal experiences, since New Beginnings, we’ve entered a pandemic and the whole world has suffered sadness, fear and a shake up. This is documented in my next book but balanced with stories of happy memories so it is not too macabre, it is more political and provides other views I’m not expressed in my first two books. 

Q10. Are there any secrets from the book (that aren’t in the blurb), you can share with your readers?

Both books have a Whitesnake song mentioned within a poems. It wasn’t intentional. Rock is my favourite genre of music.
Poetry inspired by Oliver in the poem ‘Our Harmony’ the original line was ‘If Saturday was my only memory, I could hold forever in your company’, the addition has double meaning as it was a song I chose to play on an evening with Oliver where the poem was inspired from. So the line became ‘Forevermore’ in your company to incorporate the song.Then ‘Mother Moon’ poem from New Beginnings mentions ‘In the still of the night’ it is now customary to add a new song title in each book.  I have written the next one already in book three. Maybe my readers can find it! 

Author’s Profile

Book Is Available On Amazon

New Beginnings

Oliver Fantasy and Friendship

Book: Tessa Tidies Up!

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Q1. Hello Ma’am, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.

Hi there, my name is Olivia and I live in Yorkshire with my husband Jamie, our dog Ronnie and Pearl, our three-legged cat aka Tripod. I moved back home to Yorkshire about 5 years ago. Prior to that, I lived in New York City for 16 years and Los Angeles for 7 years where I’ve had careers in both the animation and film industry. My time spent in the USA was amazing and I loved every minute in both NYC and LA, even the rough times, and there were definitely a few of those! However, my move home was a long time coming as I missed England and my parents so much. I tried to visit as much as I could but there came a time when I just couldn’t take the goodbyes anymore. I will never forget the customs officer at Manchester airport who stamped my passport when I returned to England. He looked at me and said, “Welcome home.” It brought tears to my eyes.
“Tessa Tidies Up!” is a true story. As a little girl I used to collect litter on my walks to and from school. It might sound strange but in my mind If litter was in a bin it was safely home but if it was on the ground it needed help to get home and join all the other pieces at the “party” in the bin. It was a story I’d always hoped to share.
I now own a little gift shop in my local Halifax Borough Market. I’ve labelled my shop, “The smallest most beautiful gift shop in England,” and I’m so proud of it.
It’s a mixture of Vintage, handmade, and quirky gifts for any occasion.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing ‘Tessa Tidies Up! ’ book?

I think when anyone embarks on a creative project the biggest challenge is discipline and any artist will tell you (if they’re honest) that self doubt is a constant battle.
At times, the amount of work and organisation to get a project done can be overwhelming and setting time aside to focus is key. But it’s not just setting the time aside. Belief in your vision, confidence to keep going and the support from friends and family is for me priceless.

Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?

Roger Hargreaves wrote the ”Mr Men,” book series and as a child I loved them.
My favourite children’s book author has always been Roald Dahl. I’ve also read all of his adult books. He has a wonderful way of telling a fantastical story yet relating to the human condition.

Q4. What’s your favourite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?

I was born in London and grew up in Yorkshire. Having lived away for 23 years in two big, crazy cities, I adore being home in Yorkshire and I see and appreciate the beauty in the surroundings everyday both in the architecture and the landscape. I’m so happy surrounded by our Yorkshire Moors and throw in a dry stone wall and some sheep or cows grazing…that’s the cherry on the cake.
I also love to visit my parents home, just over the hill, for a lamb supper.

Q5. Is there lots to do before you dive in and start writing a book?

Yes, there is so much to do, but I’m lucky in that I worked in animation for years so I’m familiar with the script/storyboard process which really helped me. It allows you to rough out and plan each illustration in the book whilst telling the story. Using this technique helps to streamline and map out the flow of a story.

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Q6. How long did it take you to write ‘Tessa Tidies Up!’ book?

I think it was about 9 months to put it on paper but Tessa has been in my head for years.

Q7. On what all platforms readers can find ‘Tessa Tidies Up!’ book to buy?

Amazon
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Tessa-Tidies-Up-Olivia-Ward/dp/1398431842/ref=sr_1_1?crid=37ED664MPX0QT&dchild=1&keywords=tessa+tidies+up&qid=1617471422&sprefix=tessa+tidi%2Caps%2C148&sr=8-1
Unit E11even- My Gift Shop
https://www.instagram.com/unit_e11even/
https://www.facebook.com/Unite11even
Direct from the publisher-Austin Macauley
https://www.austinmacauley.com/book/tessa-tidies

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Tessa Tidies Up!’?

I wanted the cover design to be simple, bold and eye catching for children. It definitely has a shout out to Roger Hargreaves’, “Mr Men” series. I had two versions of the cover so I sent both options to some friends to get their children’s opinion. They all voted unanimously for the option that ultimately made the cover.
As far as the title, I wanted something catchy and memorable and I’ve always loved the name Tessa. It brings back memories of my father reading to me as a child and one of my favourites he read was titled, “Tilly and Tessa.”

Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?

I think it’s important that the audience care and relate to both the characters and the story and it’s important to me that the illustrations be visually rich. I mixed old and new techniques when I illustrated my book. I think the different design techniques compliment each other and add a touch of magic.

Tessa’s character design and the village of Patchworth, where she lives, were the first sketches I drew for the project. Tessa’s design was based on my own struggle to dress myself as a little girl. Tessa is a bit messy and she struggles with buttons and keeping her socks up. I think every child can relate to that. She has a humble quality and she’s very caring. She has more important things on her mind than her outward appearance.
The village of Patchworth is based on where I walked to and from school as a child picking up litter. The idea of having the surrounding hills made up of various floral quilt patch designs just came to me one day. I happen to love vintage quilts and I have a small collection of them. I hope the village of Patchworth feels like a place the readers would like to visit.

Tessa’s story happens to be very relevant regarding our environment, however that wasn’t the intention when I started the project. It was just a little tale I wanted to tell about myself as a child but on completion it happened to have a relevant message that hopefully all of us, children and adults alike, can care about.

Author’s Profile

Book Is Available On Amazon

Tessa Tidies Up!